Infinity gardens embrace the natural landscapes and vast vistas to create visually stunning and expansive garden designs. These gardens aim to capture the essence of Colorado’s boundless beauty and evoke a sense of infinite space. The concept is achieved through careful selection of plants, strategic layout, and design elements that enhance the feeling of openness and depth. Here’s a closer look at how infinity gardens are conceptualized here in Colorado:
1. Embracing the Panoramic Views: Colorado is known for its breathtaking mountain ranges and sweeping vistas. Infinity gardens are designed to harmonize with the surrounding scenery, integrating elements that frame or accentuate the panoramic views. This can be achieved by incorporating open spaces, strategic plantings, and pathways that draw the eye towards distant horizons.
2. Extending the Visual Boundaries: Infinity gardens often utilize design techniques to create the illusion of boundlessness. This can be achieved by using linear plantings that stretch into the distance. The repetition of elements and the gradual reduction in size or density as they recede from the viewer contribute to the perception of an infinite landscape.
3. Native & Adapted Plants: To reflect our unique ecosystem and promote sustainability, infinity gardens should feature native and drought-tolerant plant species. These plants are well-suited to the region’s climate and require less water, making them environmentally conscious choices. By selecting plants that naturally thrive in Colorado’s conditions, the gardens seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment.
4. Incorporating Hardscape Elements: Hardscape elements, such as pathways, walls, and boulders, play a crucial role in creating the illusion of infinity. Curving pathways that wind through the landscape or gently slope upwards can enhance the sense of depth and perspective. Similarly, retaining walls or terraces can provide visual layers, leading the eye toward distant vistas while adding structure and interest to the garden.
5. Integrating Water: Being mindful of how we incorporate water in our landscapes to prevent excessive evaporation, while still embracing this captivating element, can enhance the overall ambiance of an infinity garden. Small recirculating fountains, birdbaths, and, of course, rain gardens, are all eco-friendly options. These features not only provide a sense of tranquility but also reflect the fact that we are a headwaters state with a number of mighty and economically important rivers beginning within the boundaries of Colorado. By incorporating water elements, the garden design is further enriched, creating a multi-dimensional experience.
6. Balancing Openness & Intimacy: While infinity gardens aim to create a sense of boundlessness, it is equally important to balance openness with intimate spaces. Seating areas, cozy nooks, or hidden alcoves can be strategically placed within the garden design, offering moments of respite and human-scale experiences amidst the vastness. This balance allows visitors to appreciate both the grandeur of the surroundings and the intimate details within the garden.
Infinity gardens celebrate our expansive landscapes, panoramic views, and native flora. By thoughtfully selecting plants, incorporating design elements, and embracing the natural surroundings, these gardens evoke a sense of infinite beauty and harmony with the endemic environment.
To the Glory of the Garden,
Eva Montane
President, Columbine Landscapes
